Skip to main content

In this article

    9 signs you need to call a drainage specialist

    15th June 2022

    Ever wondered what signs to look out for with your drainage systems? You’re in luck! Below we have listed 9 signs to look out for before you need to call a drainage expert.

    We all want to be able to take care of drainage issues as they arise or turn a blind eye and hope they go away. But the reality is that if you leave drainage problems to ‘go away’ they will inevitably come back and become a much bigger issue. We’ve listed the 9 signs you need to call a drainage expert

    1. Bad odours

    One of the first signs of a badly blocked drain is bad odours, it may start to smell like sewage water or rotten eggs. It could mean that the valve isn't working well and must be replaced or repaired.

    2. Slow drainage

    If you notice that your sinks and shower are taking longer than usual to drain, or even not at all, you may have a blockage. Something could be clogged up disrupting the usual flow of water.

    3. Sinkhole in your garden

    If you notice a patch of grass is unusually wet or the ground is starting to dip, this is likely to be a sign that you may have a collapsed drainpipe. There are many reasons a pipe might have failed, but the key is getting a professional to look at it promptly.

    4. Poor water pressure

    When turning your tap on and the water pressure seems low, even after turning it all the way, this is a sign that something could be inside the tap causing a blockage. Never attempt to unblock it yourself as you could cause more damage, potentially putting holes in the pipe, leading to a leak.

    5. You’re buying a new house

    Buying a new house is a big investment, you wouldn’t want to go in blind without knowing if you’re investment is worth it. We recommend having a drainage expert survey your drainage systems to make sure they are in good, working order and don’t pose any immediate risks to your new property.

    6. Gargling/running water noise

    Hearing gurgling water could be caused by a blockage, meaning water is trapped or the drainage system is trying to get air. Hearing running water noises when your bathroom or kitchen isn’t in use can indicate that you have a leak somewhere.

    7. No water

    Having no running water could mean that you have a serious leak you didn’t know about, this will need to be inspected straight away. There of course could be a simple fix, but there is a chance this could be a severe problem. We recommend having this looked at as soon as you can.

    8. Outside drains overflowing

    Your outside drainage system links your property to public sewage lines. If the drains in your garden are overflowing, there could be a problem with your exterior pipework. Being an external problem, we’ll be able to tell you whether or not the cost of the repair is your responsibility.

    9. Natural drain unblocker doesn’t work

    Using a natural unblocker to clear and clean your drains can help remove clogged debris, however, when you try your usual method and it doesn’t work, it can be an indicator that the problem is worse than the simple drain blockage you are used to clearing yourself.

    These are just some of the signs you need to talk to a drainage specialist. We are happy to offer advice and assist in any issues that you may be having with your drains. At Cotswold Drainage we have 25 years of experience servicing Evesham, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the Cotswolds. Our extensive experience means we have a lot of knowledge and have dealt with a lot of drains, ranging from repairs, servicing, installations, lining and blockages. We know the common problems, and myths and have seen it all. Well, most things!


    Get in touch

    Contact our friendly and professional team via form, phone or email for any drainage issues you may have.

    From blocked drains to septic tank repairs and replacements, we're here to help. We have over 25 years of experience and offer 24/7 emergency callouts.


    Cotswold drainage did a great job jetting our sewer pipe and putting in a new manhole cover. Adrian and Keith on site ,Sara and Chris in the office sorting it out for us were great.
    - Eddie Ayliffe
    Amazing service , quick call out and rectified a tricky blockage. 5 ⭐️. Recommended to others already. Thank you
    - Michelle
    Excellent service from start to finish
    - Ryan THOMAS
    We are unfortunately in a position, due to changes in the laws in recent years whereby our original Victorian septic system does not meet current regulations. We also have an issue where the pipe that drains the water from our current system runs under the road onto a neighbouring property. As you can imagine this has caused real issues. We cannot speak highly enough of Stuart and his colleagues at Cotswold Drainage. They have been fantastic, visiting site, talking us through various issues and generally holding our hand through a very stressful time. We are looking forward to having the new system installed in the Spring. Ann & Gerry Hanagarth
    - Gerry Hanagarth
    Cotswold Drainage are super efficient and extremely helpful.
    - Arabella Kiszely
    Fantastic service. Fast and efficient!
    - Andrew Seale
    Cotswold Drainage came out to clear a blocked drainage pipe in our shop and once again were quick to respond and professional throughout the duration of their work. These guys are our go-to when jobs are too big for the plumber. Very competitively priced too!
    - John Geoghegan
      Please let us know your name.
      Please let us know your email address.
      Invalid Input
      Invalid Input
      Please let us know your message.

      Related Articles

      How to Fix a Broken Drainpipe

      5 Ways to help you maintain your drain health in the home

      Why is it so important to service your drains?